Of "quietness"

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Among many verses in the Bible about women, this specific verse has been quoted often as an admirable trait about women. 

Your adornment must not be merely external-- braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. - 1 Peter 3:4

I must admit that I did not understand what it meant, until recently. I thought that it meant that a woman must not pay that much importance to her outward appearance, as much as she does to the condition of her heart, as this is precious in the sight of God. This much part is true. 

But, I also thought that a "quiet" woman is more preferable than a talkative/outgoing one. This was confusing to me, because if God has created each one of us, with our individual traits, why does the Bible talk about being "quiet"?

Maybe, this was my big "A-ha/DUH" moment, but I realized that the Bible was talking about the spirit/inner nature, not the outward manifestation. A quiet person need not always have stillness/calmness on the inside. They may worry/fret or be anxious just like anyone else.

Quietness in the spirit is  the calm confidence, settled assurance, and rest of the soul. It is the tranquil stillness of a heart that is at rest in Christ. It is the place of peace. A quiet spirit finds her worth and value in knowing who she is in Christ.

It is equally true for me that I cannot pretend to be calm or quiet on the inside, when I'm not feeling that way, on many days. In fact, I do more harm than good by stifling emotions. 

I think as Christians, we tend to sometimes put up a front about our peace, because we don't want to be known as people who lack faith. We would rather say things we don't really mean like "God is in control" or "God will provide", when we have genuine doubts whether that would ever happen.

It would be so much real, most importantly to ourselves, when we admit that we don't feel at peace. And, perhaps, that would help us turn to the only One who could grant us that gentle and quiet spirit. Not, on our terms but His.

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